NFLPA issues statement on situation with Dolphins' Richie Incognito

In the wake of Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito's indefinite suspension for conduct detrimental to the team after he allegedly made racially-charged statements and harassed teammate Jonathan Martin, the NFL Players Association issued a statement Tuesday morning.

Although the NFLPA hasn't launched a formal investigation, it's monitoring the situation. The Dolphins annnounced Monday that they are cooperating with an independent investigation from the NFL into whether it has a safe workplace. That investigation is being conducted by NFL senior vice president of law and labor policy Adolpho Birch.

"We expect that the NFL and its clubs create a safe and professional workplace for all players, and that owners, executives, coaches and players should set the best standards and examples," the NFLPA said in its statement. "It is the duty of this union to hold the clubs and teams accountable for safety and professionalism in the workplace.

"As the representative organization of all players, the NFLPA will insist on a fair investigation for all involved. We will continue to remain in contact with the impacted players, their representatives and player leadership."

Some of the incidents involving the Dolphins allegedly included rookies being asked to pay for expensive dinners for veteran players, with restaurant tabs in the $30,000 range.

Under coach John Harbaugh, the Ravens haven't allowed hazing of rookies. The first-year players are asked to sing their school fight song once during training camp.

The Ravens have maintained the tradition of young players carrying veteran players' shoulder pads and helmets off the field and bringing in fast food and donuts.